Principles of Biology

In this introductory survey course, we apply fundamental concepts of molecular and organismal biology, physics and chemistry to solve broader biological programs. Using a hybrid approach, we challenge students to engage in rigorous problem solving, and case study analysis in teams. We view this course as an opportunity for all students, majors and non-majors alike, to understand why the story of life is an enriching story that we must all appreciate.

Principles of Biology Honors

Using an array of quantitative methods, we deduce pattern and process in molecular and organismal biology, and solve real-world problems via a case studies. This course in taught in an Active Learning Classroom, outfitted with the technology that easily allows cross-group collaboration, focused team-based learning, and geared specifically toward the active-learning model I use for my instruction. By moving the didactic portion of the course outside, we allow our in-class time to be spent engaging in practical applications of the concepts.

What’s the Big Idea – A No Boundary Thinking (NBT) approach to solving complex social issues

In this course, we use an NBT approach to solving complex social issues. An NBT approach is predicated on the understanding that most problems facing today’s society transcend conventional disciplinary boundaries. Therefore, in order to derive appropriate solutions, emerging scholars need to learn the skills of crossing their disciplines, and consuming complex information from other areas. This process can be formatively developed in the presence of peers from other disciplines, and with the support and guidance of truth-seeking stakeholders. Every time this course is offered, we will choose a different complex issues, and upperclassmen from across the disciplinary spectrum will be encouraged to register. We will frame the fundamentals of the problem to be solved, and spend the semester working in a careful stepwise way toward potential solutions.

STEM Course Design in Higher Ed

This course targets graduate students in STEM who are looking for a structured, guided training program on how to create a college level science course that promotes deep learning. The final deliverable from this course from each student will be a STEM curriculum that is ready to be delivered when the course is over. We will discuss broadly the opportunity inherent in the college classroom for creating real change, and operationalizing long term goals into specific assessable learning outcomes.

What’s the Big Idea – A No Boundary Thinking (NBT) approach to solving complex social challenges - Study abroad edition to University of Cape Coast, Ghana.​

This J-term course follows the same principles as its Spring counterpart, except that the issues addressed relate specifically to the Ghanaian society. The course is couched in a number of experiential learning opportunities including visits to the slave castles and Kakum national forest. Students both engage in interdisciplinary problem-solving, and with the students and people of three major cities in Ghana.